CYCLE OF EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING

David Kolb’s Cycle of Experiential Learning

Learning through Experience • Reflection • Conceptualisation • Action

Introduction

David A. Kolb proposed the Experiential Learning Theory (1984), which states that learning is a continuous process based on experience. Knowledge is created through the transformation of experience rather than mere transmission of information.

Meaning of Experiential Learning

Experiential learning refers to learning through direct experience, followed by reflection, conceptual understanding, and application. Learners actively engage in experiences and learn by doing.

Kolb’s Learning Cycle

Kolb proposed a four-stage cyclical model of learning. Effective learning occurs when a learner passes through all four stages.

1. Concrete Experience (CE)

Learning through direct experience or activity.

2. Reflective Observation (RO)

Thinking and reflecting on the experience.

3. Abstract Conceptualisation (AC)

Forming concepts, theories, or generalisations.

4. Active Experimentation (AE)

Applying ideas to new situations.

Explanation of the Four Stages

• Concrete Experience: Learner participates in an activity or task.
• Reflective Observation: Learner reflects on what happened and why.
• Abstract Conceptualisation: Learner connects experience with theory.
• Active Experimentation: Learner applies learning in new contexts.

David Kolb’s Experiential Learning Cycle

Learning
by
Experience

Concrete Experience (CE)
Learning through direct experience

Reflective Observation (RO)
Reflecting on the experience

Abstract Conceptualisation (AC)
Forming concepts and theories

Active Experimentation (AE)
Applying ideas in new situations

Role of the Teacher

• Designer of meaningful learning experiences
• Facilitator of reflection and discussion
• Guide in concept formation
• Supporter of application and experimentation

Role of the Learner

• Active participant in learning activities
• Reflective thinker
• Constructor of knowledge
• Applier of learning in real situations

Educational Significance

• Promotes learner-centred education
• Enhances critical thinking and problem-solving
• Bridges theory and practice
• Supports experiential and activity-based learning

Example

Teaching Science Experiment: Students perform an experiment (Concrete Experience), discuss results (Reflective Observation), understand scientific principles (Abstract Conceptualisation), and apply learning in a new experiment (Active Experimentation).

Relevance to NEP-2020

Kolb’s Experiential Learning Cycle strongly supports NEP-2020, which emphasizes experiential, activity-based, competency-based, and learner-centred education at all stages of schooling.

Conclusion

David Kolb’s Cycle of Experiential Learning highlights that learning is a continuous and dynamic process. It encourages learners to experience, reflect, conceptualise, and apply knowledge, making learning meaningful and long-lasting.

© Pedagogy of Education | Kolb’s Experiential Learning Cycle